headwind

noun

head·​wind ˈhed-ˌwind 

plural headwinds

1

: a wind having the opposite general direction to a course of movement (as of an aircraft)

2

: a force or influence that inhibits progress

Power-plant construction is facing headwinds in the U.S. as renewable energy projects and slack demand throw the economics of new generators into question.

—Thomas Black

For generations, the tribe has been leaning into cultural headwinds to preserve a language on the brink of extinction.

—Kevin Simpson

The plan faces political headwinds from both sides of the aisle …

—Heidi M. Przybyla

Examples of headwind in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Constellation Brands , a leading player in the beverage alcohol industry, has faced significant headwinds in 2025 analyst downgrades and broader market concerns about trends in alcohol consumption. —Michael Khouw, CNBC, 30 June 2025

The sequel is reportedly about Priestly facing the headwind decline of the print industry (did that ever roll up the runways’ red carpets?). —Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 30 June 2025

And Russia’s wartime economy is facing stronger headwinds. —Tim Lister, CNN Money, 29 June 2025

So far, data suggests a resilient economy, although some Wall Street economists have warned the economy may soon face headwinds. —Aimee Picchi, CBS News, 26 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1709, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for headwind

• chagrined
• crosswind
• downwind
• rescind
• upwind
• whirlwind
• woodwind
• finned
• ginned
• grinned
• pinned
• sinned

Kids Definition

headwind

noun

head·​wind -ˌwind 

: a wind blowing in a direction opposite to a course of movement (as of a ship or aircraft)